Question
Hello,

Thoughts turn to spring now that the weather has started to warm in my part of the country. Can you tell me which plants do well placed outdoors for the summer? Thanks, Toni

Answer
Hi Toni,

Rather than identify plants that do well outside in summer by species, I can give you some important guidelines to follow.

In Nature, plants do not move, so any dramatic change in environment for a plant can be very stressful. So always try to minimize the degree of change involved. Change in light and in temperature are the most important factors.

Indoor light is much less intense than outdoor light. We often do not realize this because our eyes adjust to light changes automatically. Any plant that has been indoors should be moved only to a very shady outdoor location. This will minimize the shock of more intense light.

Be aware that the sun moves and what may be shade in the morning, may be in direct sun in the afternoon. Even an hour of direct sun is enough to damage delicate foliage. In general, the north side of the house is the best location.

Indoor houseplants that are designated as "low light" plants (Dracaenas, peace lilies, Chinese evergreen, Pothos, Philodendrons, ferns, etc.) are best left indoors or moved outside to a covered porch or deck only.

Plants can adapt to temperature changes if they are introduced gradually. If you move your plants outside early, then night-time temperatures may still be too cold. As a general rule, most houseplants should not be exposed to temps below 55 degrees. There are some houseplants that can survive temps close to freezing, but only if such cold temps are introduced gradually over the course of many weeks.

If you have specific plants in mind, I can tell you what their temperature and light tolerances are and which will adapt more easily to being moved outside.

I have written an article on moving houseplants outdoors that I will email to anyone who sends a request to my email address below.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]